Discover Rifugio Biasi al Bicchiere in Ridanna, the highest mountain hut in South Tyrol
Up there, among the majestic highest peaks, where the air becomes purer, the earth seems to embrace the sky, and only a few animals and plants dare to defy the force of nature...right there, at an elevation of 3,195m stands imposingly tall, the highest mountain hut in South Tyrol: the Rifugio al Bicchiere di Ridanna.
History and significance
As the highest mountain hut in the entire region, the Bicchiere Hut, located at the bottom of the Ridanna Valley, holds a rich history of special events. The Bicchiere Peak was first conquered in 1886, shortly after which the idea of building a hut was born: 7 years later, in 1893, construction work began on the new hut, named "Empress Elisabeth Hut" as a sign of thanks to the Prussian and Bohemian sections. Due to the inaccessibility of the construction site, the structure was built in the valley only to be dismantled and rebuilt, piece by piece, at the top of the Bicchiere, resorting to sledges, specially made inclined planes and the sheer physical strength of the local population. At the same time, the chapel "Santa Maria della Neve " was built, unique and the highest in Europe, which can still be visited today.
Changes and reopening
Over the years, Rifugio al Bicchiere has undergone many renovations and modernizations, including the name referring to its namesake peak. The original structure has been expanded and its management has also changed hands. In fact, it is not so long ago that the hut was presented in an all-new construction and reopened under the banner of sustainable construction. The latest work was completed in 2021, and now the Biasi al Bicchiere Refuge is looking its best.
Of course, the construction site at 3,195m posed many challenges for the workers - having been the highest-altitude construction site in South Tyrol, they often worked in temperatures of -25°C. However, the effort was worth it; in addition to lining the outer shell with larch shingles, the terrace was enlarged, the roof renovated, and a new cozy Stube set up - even The power supply system was implemented with a photovoltaic system and an accumulator, the plumbing, fire-fighting, water supply, and glacier water treatment systems were installed.
However, it has retained its rustic charm and authentic atmosphere, making it a popular destination for adventurers and nature lovers. In summer, the lodge offers simple accommodations and dining options, including traditional South Tyrolean dishes and local specialties, while in winter only a winter room remains open to accommodate adventurers. A stove, firewood, dishes, and pots and pans are available inside-the essentials for recharging energy after the strenuous climb.
How do you reach the highest refuge in South Tyrol?
Access to the Becher Hut is via several alpine routes, which may vary depending on the season and weather conditions. Among the starting points are the Ridanna Valley on the South Tyrolean side and the Ötztal valley, as well as the Stubaital valley if starting from the Austrian side. The most popular starting point for the summit tour is the valley head in Val Ridanna. Of course, as with all high-altitude tours, mountain experience, sure footing and proper equipment are essential, as you have to walk for 7 hours and climb 1,725 meters in altitude!
But don't be intimidated by the numbers - any effort must be rewarded once you reach the summit. But even the trail itself is as magnificent as the destination - it leads past several alpine pastures and huts, including the Aglsalm, the Grohmanhütte hut and finally to the Teplitzer Hut. The trail is as varied as the area itself, leading past meadows, rocky pear orchards and even crossing a small glacier tongue. The proverb "the path is the goal" could not correspond better!
For a more detailed description of the hike to the Bicchiere Shelter, we recommend visiting the website: www.racines.info
Ready for your adventure? Find out more on Instagram @visitratschings
Ph. © Racines Turismo/Manuel Kottersteger
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